I never imagined I’d be in this position at 78 years old. After a lifetime of helping others both financially and emotionally, I now find myself struggling to get by. I’ve been searching for work, but at my age, with limited mobility (I use a Rollator-Walker to get around), a history of triple bypass surgery, COPD, and frequent tears, I keep getting turned down. It’s heartbreaking and humbling.

Now, I have to move abruptly into an apartment on May 1st with nothing but a refrigerator and stove—no furniture, no bed, no couch, no tables or lamps, not even a dinette set. If I save every cent of my only income (Social Security) between now and April 30th, and keep my monthly bills paid, I’ll have less than a penny left after paying my first month’s rent and security deposit. That leaves nothing for moving expenses, doctors, prescriptions, food, or anything else. I even had to cancel a pulmonary doctor appointment because I didn’t have enough for the co-pay. I’ve already cashed in my life insurance, and I worry about how I’ll afford even basic end-of-life expenses.

All I want is to feel normal again—to get back on my feet, live in a modest place, and be able to see my doctors and buy food when I need it. I haven’t had a car in over six months, so I’ll be relying on Laketran, a local service for seniors, for transportation. It’s tough always having to ask others for rides, and it wears on my emotions. I’ve reached out to every agency I can, but so far, nothing tangible has come through—just more phone numbers to call. If you could open your heart and help me with these necessities, it would take a huge burden off my shoulders and remind me that life doesn’t have to be this hard. I’m embarrassed, ashamed, scared, and humbled to share my story, but your support would mean the world to me. Thank you so much for reading and for any help you can give.